To quell her homesickness, Pacheco enrolled in the Boynton Beach City Services Institute.

The institute, like other residents' academies in Palm Beach County, consists of six-to-eight-week-long courses that break down the city's scene, often including tours of City Hall and lectures with town leaders. But two municipalities have had to cancel their programs.

In April, the spring session of Wellington's Residents Academy was canceled.

"We like to have a minimum of 20, and we didn't get enough applications," said Kathy Tatgenhorst, assistant to the Village Council.

Boca Raton eliminated its program about two years ago. Some city officials say it was funding, while others cite lack of attendance.

Boca Raton does, however, offer youth-targeted government days where high school students take tours of city departments.

"Anything you do with kids is important as far as letting them know there are ways to get involved in the city," said Susan Saxton, assistant to the city manager.

Delray Beach offers a free Residents Academy twice a year, consisting of six three-hour sessions instructing citizens about how their government operates, said Janet Meeks, the city's education coordinator.

The Boynton Beach City Services Institute is one of the few academies in the county that charges a fee for attendance.

"When we first did it, we didn't charge anything and people didn't affix a value to it," said city spokesman Wayne Segal. "The $25 shows commitment and value for it."

Pacheco said she has recommended the city institute to her friends.

"I have a real interest in what brings people together beyond a zip code," Pacheco said.

For information about the Boynton Beach City Services Institute, call Wayne Segal at 561-742-6025.

For information about the Delray Beach Residents Academy, go to www.delraybeach.com.

In Boca Raton, for youth programs, call Susan Saxton at 561-393-7836.

For the Wellington Residents Academy, call Kathy Tatgenhorst at 561-791-4097.

Rachel Hatzipanagos can be reached at rhatzipanagos@sun-sentinel.com or 561-243-6621.